"She certainly could have," he agrees, sounding a bit more serious now to emphasize that he didn't make such a dangerous move lightly. "...But I felt she wouldn't. Acting on suppositions when it comes to the Wizard is reckless, I understand, but the sheer imbalance of power means we have to take risks. She could just as easily erase me for no reason whatsoever right as we speak. Unexpected initiative could teach us something new."

Terrence pauses to take another drink, giving time for his explanation to sit. He's not expecting the Protector to approve, but at least to understand.